Metra 44-US07R Antenna with 44-EC72 72-in Extension - Replacement

In this review the Metra 44-US07R paired with the 44-EC72 extension is examined as a direct replacement antenna kit for vehicles with a 1 in opening. The bottom line: this package is for drivers who need a straightforward, low-cost antenna swap with a long reachable cable, and the single biggest reason to buy is the combination of a removable 14 in rubber mast and a 72 in extension that lets installers route the cable without cutting factory wiring. It is an unglamorous but practical repair option that prioritizes ease of installation over premium materials.

Key Features

• Side/top mount design: The split ball mounting fits a 1 in/25 mm hole and enables installation on either the roof or side panel for flexible placement.
• Removable rubber mast: The 14 in black conductive rubber mast detaches for washing or storage while providing a weather-resistant signal pickup.
• Long cable run: The antenna includes a 54 in cable on the mast plus the 72 in universal extension to reach deeper into many vehicle interiors without splicing.
• Compatibility labels: The 44-US07R variant is listed alongside equivalent part numbers to simplify matching with existing mounts and trim.
• Included impedance matching: The extension cable includes impedance matching capacitors to help preserve signal transfer across the added length.

Who It's For

This kit is best for DIY vehicle owners, installers, and audio technicians who need a practical replacement for a lost or damaged antenna and who want a fairly simple, reversible installation. The long extension cable suits vehicles where the original antenna lead is short or inaccessible, and the rubber mast offers a reasonable balance of durability and low-cost replacement.

Customers who require a premium metal mast, a factory-grade mount, or expect consistently excellent reception in marginal coverage areas should look elsewhere. Also, those worried about plastic mount longevity or demanding high-end aesthetic finish may prefer a higher-tier aftermarket option.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy installation for side or top mounting in a standard 1 in/25 mm hole.
• Removable 14 in rubber mast is practical for car washes and parking low clearance areas.
• The 72 in extension with matching capacitors allows flexible routing without cutting factory leads.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed reception performance, so results can vary by vehicle and signal environment.
• Mounting plastic quality and mount durability received criticism and may wear sooner than metal alternatives.

Specifications

Brand	Metra
Mount type	Side/top split ball for 1 in/25 mm opening
Mast	14 in removable black conductive rubber
Cable length	54 in on mast, plus 72 in extension
Extension features	Includes impedance matching capacitors
Included components	Metra branded antenna and 72 in extension cable

Our Verdict

The Metra 44-US07R with the 44-EC72 extension is a sensible, value-oriented replacement for drivers who need a functional antenna and extra cable length without complicated installation. It performs well in ordinary reception areas and is easy to fit, but prospective buyers should accept modest plastic parts and variable reception as trade-offs for the low price and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this fit my factory 1 in antenna hole?
Yes, the mount is designed for a 1 in/25 mm opening and supports side or top installation.

Does the extension affect signal quality?
The 72 in extension includes impedance matching capacitors to minimize signal loss, though reception can still vary by vehicle and environment.

Is the mast removable?
Yes, the 14 in black rubber mast is removable for storage or cleaning.